Ryan’s Pharmacy Nenagh
Breathing New Life into a Heritage Site
Conservation, Renovation & Fitout for Ryan’s Pharmacy, Nenagh
In early 2022, Collins Building & Civil Engineering Ltd completed a landmark project in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary for Ryan’s Pharmacy—a sensitive and sophisticated blend of conservation, renovation, and modern fitout.
Set within a protected structure, the project involved the full redevelopment of the original pharmacy building, along with the adaptive reuse of an adjoining historic church building to the rear. The result is a dynamic, multi-purpose space that now includes medical offices, a café, and a fully restored, upgraded pharmacy.
Integrating Past and Present
The project was carried out with careful attention to the site’s unique architectural heritage. Major works included:
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Demolition & Alteration of Stonework
Selective structural changes to original stone walls to allow for extension and modern use, all carried out with conservation oversight. -
Window Refurbishment & Restoration
Traditional and Gothic-style windows were restored or replicated, including lead-lined window works, to preserve the building’s ecclesiastical character. -
Roofing Works
Roofing timbers were treated for dry rot, with structural repairs and reboarding carried out to stabilise the entire structure.
Multi-Use Internal Fitout
Internally, Collins BCE delivered a comprehensive fitout across the newly reconfigured building, including:
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New Doctors’ Offices
Constructed on the first and second floors, extending into the church structure to create light-filled, private clinical spaces. -
Mechanical & Electrical Installations
Full M&E services integrated into the protected structure with minimal visual impact. -
Lift & Dumb Waiter Installations
Enhancing both accessibility and day-to-day operations within the multi-level facility. -
Pharmacy & Temporary Fitout
A temporary pharmacy was fitted out to allow business continuity during works, while the permanent space received a complete interior upgrade. -
Café Fitout in Church Area
A new café space was introduced within the former church, carefully designed to respect the historic setting while offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere. -
Mezzanine Floor
A second-floor mezzanine was installed within the church area to maximise usable space while retaining the volume and architectural character.
Craftsmanship and Care Throughout
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Timber Restoration
Existing timber joists and floorboards were restored, and fireproofing was added to meet safety regulations without compromising heritage value. -
External Fabric Works
Lime render was applied internally and externally, and stone façades were raked out and repointed to restore the building’s original character. -
External Works & Site Services
Landscaping, service connections, and site improvements were completed to support the upgraded premises.
Where Heritage Meets Modern Function
This project exemplifies Collins BCE’s capacity to merge conservation with commercial functionality. The team managed a complex blend of historical sensitivity and modern building standards, resulting in a space that now serves multiple community needs—all while preserving and celebrating the site’s unique past.
A Revitalised Hub in the Heart of Nenagh
Completed in January 2022, Ryan’s Pharmacy now stands as a shining example of adaptive reuse done right—where a protected structure evolves to meet contemporary needs without losing its soul.
Have a conservation, commercial, or multi-use renovation project in mind? Contact Collins BCE to learn how we can bring it to life.

















